Terracotta fragment of a kylix (drinking cup)

Art Historical Context

This terracotta fragment comes from a kylix, the shallow drinking cup central to ancient Greek social life. Created in Athens between 460 and 450 BCE during the Classical period, it reflects the refined tastes of Attic society at the height of its cultural influence. Kylikes were used at symposia, the lively gatherings where Athenian men discussed philosophy, politics, and while sharing wine, making such vessels both functional objects and carriers of artistic expression. Attributed to the Euaion Painter, the fragment exemplifies the sophisticated red-figure technique that dominated Attic vas...